Orioles Tender Contracts to 11 Arbitration-Eligible Players

The Orioles extended 2026 contract offers to 11 of their 12 arbitration-eligible players on Friday. Contrary to some predictions, both first baseman Ryan Mountcastle and right-handed reliever Yennier Cano received offers.

Mountcastle’s 2025 season was substantially impacted by a hamstring injury, keeping him sidelined for over two months.

“So much of what happened in 2025 was frustrating and disappointing, and there were injuries involved, which really mirrored what happened to a lot of the team,” stated Orioles president of baseball operations Mike Elias during a video conference call. “Ryan still demonstrated glimpses of his talent. We believe he’s a grate hitter, which is why we tendered him a contract and are bringing him back. He remains a key part of our plans.”

Right-handed pitcher Albert Suárez, who suffered a rotator cuff injury that sidelined him for almost the entire 2025 season, was not offered a contract and is now a free agent.

“The arbitration system, and specifically the tender process, involves price points that are…,” Elias explained, leaving the thoght unfinished.

Key Takeaways

• the Orioles tendered contracts to 11 of 12 arbitration-eligible players.
• ryan Mountcastle and Yennier Cano, previously speculated to be non-tendered, received offers.
• Albert Suárez was not tendered a contract and is now a free agent due to a rotator cuff injury.
• The orioles remain confident in Mountcastle’s hitting ability despite his injury-plagued 2025 season.

Looking ahead, the Orioles face decisions regarding contract negotiations with the tendered players. the team’s focus will be on solidifying their roster for a competitive 2026 season, building upon the foundation established in recent years.